Uzbekistan has officially become the 26th country to adhere to the International Code for the Protection of Tourists (ICPT), reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding travelers' rights and enhancing legal protections.
The ICPT, developed by UN Tourism, serves as a global framework to protect tourists, particularly in emergencies, while ensuring their rights as consumers. By aligning with this initiative, Uzbekistan strengthens its efforts to uphold international tourism standards and enhance visitor safety.
"Uzbekistan is committed to ensuring the highest standards of safety, security, and quality for all visitors. The ICPT enhances the rights of travelers while reinforcing trust in Uzbekistan as a welcoming and reliable destination. This alignment with global principles supports our vision of a modern, hospitable, and competitive tourism sector that benefits both visitors and local communities," Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change of Uzbekistan voiced.
Uzbekistan has been actively contributing to global tourism policies. Notably, the country spearheaded the establishment of the Committee for the development of an International Safe Tourism Code and was unanimously elected as its Chair in December 2024.
Alicia Gomez, Director of Legal Affairs and International Standards at UN Tourism, emphasized the importance of harmonizing international standards, stating:
"The global nature of tourism makes these frameworks essential. Both the ICPT and the future International Safe Tourism Code are invaluable tools for ensuring consistency and protection for travelers worldwide."
Uzbekistan’s Growing Tourism Sector
The adoption of ICPT aligns with Uzbekistan’s increasing focus on sustainable tourism and hospitality. In 2024, 8.2mn foreign tourists visited Uzbekistan, marking an increase from 6.6mn in 2023.
Breakdown of 2024 tourist arrivals:
- Women: 4.08mn (49.8%)
- Men: 4.10mn (50.2%)
The country has witnessed a steady rise in visitor numbers, with over 3.5mn foreign tourists arriving in the first half of 2024, reaching 5.7mn by October 1. Key markets include the European Union and the United States, with over 10,600 US tourists visiting in the first five months of 2024.
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